CNC Turning
CNC turning is a subtractive manufacturing process in which pieces of material are rotated as a machine tool turns the part, removing material to form a finished piece. It is mainly used to manufacture parts that are cylindrical in nature.
High-Quality CNC Turning Parts for Precision Engineering Solutions
Components featuring additional elements like flats, holes, or other intricate details can be effectively executed in a single operation through our 4-axis and 5-axis turning centers. These centers are empowered by live tool technology, enabling the creation of parts with heightened precision and eliminating the need for subsequent operations. Our advanced machinery is also equipped with a sub-spindle – a second chuck synchronized with the primary one – facilitating work on the rear of a part sans manual intervention.
The integration of such cutting-edge technology directly translates to improved repeatability and swifter production times. This, in turn, results in enhanced part quality and reduced costs for your benefit.
Should your requirements extend to metal turned parts, rest assured we’re equipped to assist. While we specialize in handling all grades of stainless steel and aluminum, we maintain a distinct separation between our dedicated plastic equipment to ensure there’s no unintended cross-contamination.
Some Metal Components Include
- Spacers
- Special Washers
- Retaining Rings
- Custom Hardware
- Locating Pins
- Valve Parts
How Does CNC Turning Work?
CNC turning is a precision machining process used to produce cylindrical parts by removing material from a rotating workpiece using a cutting tool. “CNC” stands for Computer Numerical Control, which means that the entire operation is driven by computer-programmed instructions. To understand the functioning of CNC turning, one must understand its reliance on computer-generated programs. These programs guide the motion of machine tools, ensuring that each cut is made with accuracy and consistency.
What are Different Types of CNC Turning Machine?
CNC turning machines come in various configurations, each designed for specific tasks, production volumes, and complexity of parts. Understanding the types of CNC turning machines is essential for selecting the right equipment for your application.
1. Horizontal CNC Turning Machines (Lathes)
- This is the most common type of CNC turning machine. In horizontal lathes, the spindle is positioned horizontally, and the cutting tool moves across the rotating workpiece to remove material.
Key Features:
Ideal for cylindrical parts. - Efficient chip removal due to gravity.
- Suitable for high-speed production.
- Typically includes a turret holding multiple tools.
Common Uses:
Shafts, bushings, fasteners, and general precision components.
Vertical CNC Turning Machines (Vertical Turret Lathes or VTLs)
In vertical CNC turning machines, the spindle is vertically oriented. The workpiece is clamped to a horizontal rotating table, and the cutting tool descends from above.
- Key Features:
Best for large, heavy, or awkwardly shaped parts. - Gravity helps center the part on the chuck.
- Often used in aerospace and heavy equipment manufacturing.
Common Uses:
- Brake discs, large bearings, flywheels, and other heavy components.
CNC Swiss-Type Turning Machines
Swiss-type lathes are designed for small, complex, high-precision parts. They use a sliding headstock and a guide bushing that supports the material close to the cutting area, minimizing deflection.
- Key Features:
Extremely high precision. - Supports multi-axis machining.
- Allows simultaneous machining with multiple tools.
- Often includes live tooling for milling and drilling.
Common Uses:
- Medical implants, watch parts, electronics components, aerospace fasteners.
Types of CNC Turning Machines
| Machine Type | Best For | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal Lathe | General purpose turning | Gravity-aided chip removal, versatile |
| Vertical Lathe (VTL) | Large/heavy parts | Vertical orientation, stable part clamping |
| Swiss-Type Lathe | Small/high-precision parts | Sliding headstock, multi-tool stations |
| Multi-Spindle Lathe | High-volume production | Simultaneous machining |
| CNC Turning Center | Complex/multi-operation parts | Turning + milling, live tooling, Y-axis |
| Twin-Spindle Machine | End-to-end part machining | Two spindles, reduces part handling |
| Bar-Fed Lathe | Automated mass production | Connected to bar feeder for continuous runs |
